In Saint Barthélemy, every curve of the road reveals a postcard-worthy view. The island enchants visitors with its idyllic beaches, breathtaking panoramas, and colorful villages — perfect settings to elevate your Instagram feed. To make the most of these marvels, there’s one must-have travel companion: a rental car.
At Dollar SBH, we don’t just rent cars — we help you experience the island differently. Here’s our ideal photo road trip with 10 unmissable stops for snapshots as unforgettable as your stay.
Stop #1 — Col de la Tourmente: Legendary Landing Spot
Start your journey just two minutes from Gustaf III Airport. Park above the famous curve of Col de la Tourmente. From here, you’ll have a clear view of the runway… and of planes that fly astonishingly close to the road as they land. It’s one of the most viral Instagram spots in all of St. Barth!
Suggested pose: sitting on the wall or standing with your back to the horizon, a plane in the background.
Hashtags to use: #StBarthLanding #ColDeLaTourmente
Stop #2 — Saint-Jean Beach: Turquoise Elegance
Head toward Saint-Jean, one of the island’s most iconic beaches. White sand and crystal-clear water attract influencers from all over the world. Nikki Beach umbrellas, chic beach shacks, and distant plane wings add to the unique boho-luxury vibe.
Best angle: from the rocks on the right side of the beach or lifestyle-style from a sunbed.
Car bonus: Park a convertible by the beach for a Miami-style pic.
Stop #3 — Eden Rock: Iconic View
A bit further up is Eden Rock, a legendary hotel perched on a rock out in the sea — and as photogenic as it is exclusive. Even if you’re not staying there, its beauty is easily captured from the beach or the nearby hillside road.
Pro tip: Shoot in late morning when the light enhances the contrast between rock, sea, and architecture.
Stop #4 — Pointe Milou at Sunrise
Drive to Pointe Milou, on the northeastern tip of the island. This residential area offers magical horizon views — especially at dawn. It’s calm, wild, and often deserted in the early hours.
Gear: tripod and graduated filter if you’re serious about photography.
Style: contemplative silhouette or sunrise yoga for a peaceful vibe.
Stop #5 — Morne Rouge: Most Scenic Road
As you drive your rental car through the heights of Morne Rouge, you’ll discover one of the most photogenic routes on the island. Winding and elevated, the road offers sweeping views: lush valleys, sparkling sea, and wild greenery. A car photo shoot here is a guaranteed win.
Signature shot: car parked in a curve, framed from behind with the sea in the background.
Recommended models: Mini Convertible, Jeep Wrangler, or Fiat 500 for a retro feel.
Stop #6 — Flamands Beach: Barefoot Authenticity
Next, descend to Flamands Beach — a wilder, more peaceful spot. The light in the late afternoon is perfect for backlit shots or beachy portraits with a natural look. Palm trees, boats in the distance, and gentle waves set the ideal scene.
Perfect pose: feet in the water, or walking with your back to the camera.
Alt angle: the road up to Cheval Blanc Hotel offers a great vantage point.
Stop #7 — Corossol: Local Charm & Colorful Boats
Corossol is a true hidden gem. This tiny fishing village transports you to another era: hand-painted boats, traditional homes, a peaceful rhythm of life. The perfect Instagram spot for a “#nofilter moment.”
Focus on: texture details (wood, nets, shells), close-up portraits.
Color mood: vintage, pastel, natural. This is St. Barth off the beaten path.
Stop #8 — Fort Gustav: Panoramic Gustavia
Drive to Gustavia, the island’s capital, and climb to Fort Gustav for an unbeatable view of the harbor. At sunset, the colors glow, yachts sparkle, and the town feels straight out of a movie set.
Suggestion: sit on the old cannons with your camera, or shoot downward over the red rooftops.
Best time: 5:30–6:30 PM to catch the golden hour.
Stop #9 — Gouverneur Beach: Dreamy & Cinematic
Gouverneur Beach is often hailed as the island’s most beautiful. Surrounded by cliffs and protected from the wind, it’s a secluded, idyllic cove. Here’s where you’ll snap your ultimate postcard shot: translucent water, blue skies, and not a building in sight.
Top shot: aerial drone view or a lone figure walking down the beach, taken from behind.
Pro tip: go early to avoid crowds, or late afternoon for soft light.
Stop #10 — Saline Beach: Desert Meets Ocean
End your photo road trip at Saline Beach, reached via a short sandy trail. The vibe is desert-like, minimalist, raw. A playground for those who love natural light, flowing dunes, and graphic compositions.
Inspo: long shadows, contrast play, clean minimalist framing.
Style tip: black & white, silhouette, or contemplative lifestyle shots.
Why Do This Photo Circuit by Car?
St. Barth may be small, but it’s hilly and full of hidden gems. Without a car, many of these spots are hard — if not impossible — to reach. With your own vehicle, you can:
- Maximize your time with no unnecessary detours
- Reach secret high-up views
- Easily transport your camera gear
- Change outfits or settings quickly for varied content
Renting a car is not only a smart logistical move — it’s a creative tool for photography lovers and Instagram enthusiasts.
Bonus Tips for Shooting in St. Barth
- Golden hour: aim for magic times (7–9 AM and 5–6:30 PM)
- Light outfits: they pop better on beach backgrounds
- Keep lenses clean, especially after beach stops
- Don’t forget the details: textures, shadows, reflections — not just the landscapes
- Less is more: a beautiful car, a simple backdrop, and you!
Final Word: A Journey Worth Sharing
In St. Barth, beauty is everywhere. But with the right rental car, you create your own photo itinerary, at your own pace. You’re not just following a guide — you’re crafting your own visual travel journal, from beaches and cliffs to colorful villages. Whether you’re a budding photographer, an influencer, or just in love with beautiful imagery, this photo circuit is designed with you in mind.
Ready to capture St. Barth like never before?
Book your car with Dollar SBH and start your quest for the island’s most stunning shots.